Dhaka, 22 February 2026 (Sunday) — The State Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Yaser Khan Chowdhury, held a courtesy meeting at his Secretariat office with leaders of the Online News Portal Association Bangladesh (ONAB), a representative body of registered online news portal owners in Bangladesh.
The discussion centred on the evolving landscape of digital journalism, regulatory challenges, and the sustainability of registered online news platforms amid a rapidly expanding media environment.
During the meeting, ONAB representatives underscored the growing importance of online news portals in delivering real-time information to citizens, particularly at moments of national significance. They noted that digital platforms frequently serve as the first source of breaking news on political developments, public policy, natural disasters, and socio-economic issues. In an era defined by instantaneous communication, they argued, responsible online journalism plays a pivotal role in informing the public and countering misinformation.
However, the association expressed concern over several structural and financial constraints. Chief among these was the annual renewal requirement for registration, which they described as administratively burdensome and financially taxing, particularly for smaller and regional outlets. They also highlighted the proliferation of unregistered portals, which, they claimed, often operate without oversight and undermine the credibility of compliant organisations.
ONAB presented a set of key proposals to the ministry, summarised below:
| Issue Raised | Proposed Reform | Intended Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Annual registration renewal | Abolish yearly renewal or introduce long-term registration | Reduce administrative burden and operational costs |
| Unregistered portals | Strict monitoring and cancellation of illegal portals | Ensure credibility and reduce misinformation |
| Government advertising | Allocate a fixed share of public advertisements to registered portals | Improve financial sustainability |
| Policy framework | Introduce clearer, sector-specific guidelines | Strengthen accountability and professional standards |
The association emphasised that equitable access to government advertising would significantly enhance the financial viability of compliant portals, enabling them to invest in investigative reporting, newsroom development, and technological upgrades.
In response, State Minister Yaser Khan Chowdhury acknowledged the transformative role of digital media within Bangladesh’s broader communication ecosystem. He stated that the government remains committed to fostering responsible journalism while ensuring regulatory oversight. The minister assured the delegation that their “reasonable and constructive” proposals would be carefully reviewed, with a view to balancing press freedom, industry sustainability, and public interest.
He further noted that strengthening registered platforms while taking action against unauthorised operators would contribute to a more disciplined and credible digital news sector.
The ONAB delegation was led by Convener Mostafa Kamal Mozumder and Member Secretary Shahin Chowdhury. Other attendees included Joint Convener Latiful Bari Hamim and Executive Members Ashraful Kabir Asif, Mohsin Hossain, and Ayon Ahmed.
Media analysts observe that as Bangladesh’s online news sector continues to expand, regulatory reform and institutional dialogue between the government and stakeholders will be crucial. A streamlined registration system and transparent advertising policy could help create a more sustainable, accountable, and professional digital media environment in the years ahead.